Russia bet rated at 5/2

Live on ITV4: Thurs 21.00: Russia are 5/2 with betway to lead Algeria at the end of each half in their crucial World Cup Group H scrap.

Although South Korea can stilll reach the knockout stage, realistically it looks like a scrap between Algeria and Russia – who meet in Curitiba – for the competition’s final second round berth.

A draw, at 27/10 (888Sport) will probably be sufficient for Algeria to emerge from Group H with Belgium and Ladbrokes make them 11/4 to progress in style by conquering Fabio Capello’s team in Porto Alegre. However, the Russians, Betfred’s 23/20 favourites, can break Algerian hearts and sneak into second spot with a victory.

Algeria aren’t strong enough defensively to sit back trying to protect what they have but they did fire four past South Korea last time out so it’s match in which both teams should find the net (39/40, 888Sport).

Subsequently, Skybet’s 6/5 about a match tally of three or more goals catches the eye and the same firm combine that total with a Russian triumph at an enticing 11/4.

For bolder punters, Totesport chalk Capello’s side up at 9/1 to finish on the right side of a 2-1 scoreline and it’s 5/2 courtesy of betway for them to lead an open contest at the end of each half.